Monthly Archives: February 2010

Welcome Spring: Be a Citizen Scientist!

February 17, 2010

Looks like springtime

Many of us in North America are VERY READY FOR SPRING! We’re ready to put away our boots and hats, and welcome spring in all its colorful glory.

So, why not show Mother Nature your appreciation this year and participate in a great citizen science campaign — Project Budburst. Collect valuable environmental and climate change data to help scientists in their work.

PBBlogo_transparent_URL_hr

Join thousands of citizen scientists across the nation. It’s a great project for families, classrooms, and individuals.

See ya outside! ~ The Grass Stain Guru

Creative Commons License photo credit: dan taylor

By Bethe | Posted in Activities, nature | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments (13)

Race to Nowhere

February 15, 2010

I have written on education reform multiple times. It is no secret that I am not a fan of the current American education system, the decrease in free time for children, excessive homework, and the fast track that many parents are putting their children on.

I am really excited to see the upcoming documentary, Race to Nowhere. I hope the medium of film will help raise America’s consciousness, since nothing else to date seems to have spurred any kind of serious cry for reform or given people pause to the adulteration of childhood that is acceptable in today’s society.

Here are a few of my related posts that you might find interesting:

It All Comes Down to Choices

The Journey of a Curious Mind

Kindergarten Crisis

Creativity: Or What Children Have Before We Teach it Out of Them

Childhood comes but once, and it short and should be filled with magic and the love of learning. I hope we as a society can take steps to move the pendulum back in that direction.

Are you planning on seeing the documentary?

See ya outside! ~ The Grass Stain Guru

By Bethe | Posted in education, Perspectives | Tagged , , , , , | Comments (15)

Mystery Critter #38

February 13, 2010

Kindergarten scout
Creative Commons License photo credit: matsber

Happy weekend, my nature detectives! Time to play a little guessing game to keep your wildlife spotting skills up to snuff.

So, put on your thinking caps and let’s play Mystery Critter. And remember — no cheating! ;-)

CRITTER CLUES:

  • I am a ground dweller
  • You can see me more readily in winter
  • My color varies throughout North America
  • My diet consists of seeds and small fruit
  • I am territorial

What am I? Make your guess then go to eNature for the answer and more interesting facts. Did you get it right?

If not, no worries. You will have another chance next week!

Now, head outside and see what critters you can spot in your neck of the woods! Winter is a great time of year to spot wildlife.  Join the Wildobs community and share your wild adventures with the world.

There’s so much wonder waiting for you when you step outside your door. Take the time to look up — and down — and reconnect with the natural world.

See ya outside! ~ The Grass Stain Guru


Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...

By Bethe | Posted in Activities, nature | Tagged , , , , | Comments (13)